Invisalign Braces FAQ

What does it feel like to wear Invisalign?

Invisalign trays are smooth and clear and fit snugly over the teeth, snapping into place, so they gently and consistently move teeth into their new positions. This movement will create some pressure and discomfort, but the sensation is normal and indicates that the treatment is working. Unlike wearers of traditional braces who are at the mercy of the sometimes sharp and jagged metal wires and brackets, the clear trays of Invisalign braces will never snag your lips or cheeks.

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign is designed to shift teeth a few at a time until your entire smile is in alignment. This is achieved by changing trays every two weeks. Your Manhattan Beach dentist will determine your entire Invisalign plan from the start before you even have an aligner in your mouth, so you know what to expect from start to finish.

Do I have to wear Invisalign braces all the time?

Invisalign must be worn 20 to 22 hours every day to be effective. This gives you about three to four hours to remove the trays for meals, snacks, and cleaning. That’s an incredible amount of freedom, the kind of freedom that wearers of metal braces never have. Never go for an hour or more without your trays in place. If you leave the aligners out for hours or days, you risk compromising all the progress you’ve made to that point. A departure from your customized alignment plan will interfere with the success of your treatment.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

The average Invisalign treatment takes about one year to complete. Some people have more complex issues that will require more time. Other patients have smaller gaps or misalignments that may only take several months to straighten out. The success of your treatment and the time it takes to complete depends on how dedicated you are to wear your trays as instructed and how well your teeth respond to treatment.

Will I need attachments?

Attachments are small, composite-colored dots of varying shapes that are adhered temporarily to your teeth as tiny anchors so the aligners can fit better and move teeth more effectively. Not every patient needs attachments, but they are a common component of Invisalign braces.

How much does Invisalign cost?

Invisalign braces can cost between $3,000 and $7,000 depending on the complexity of your case and the number of trays you must wear, your dentist’s experience, and your geographic location. You’ll know from the start how many aligners to expect, and there will not be any cost surprises along the way unless you develop an unexpected oral health problem or regularly lose or damage trays and need to replace them. Invisalign is an accessible treatment, especially with the help of dental insurance and creative financing options.

Do I have to wear a retainer after Invisalign braces?

Yes. No matter what orthodontic treatment you undergo, a retainer is necessary afterward to ensure that your newly aligned teeth stay in their proper positions. Invisalign retainers are just as clear as the trays you wear during treatment. While you may need to wear them every day, all day for several months at first, eventually, you can switch to wearing the retainers at night only, per your Manhattan Beach Invisalign provider’s instructions.

Is Invisalign suitable for me?

Only your dentist can tell you for sure if Invisalign Invisalign is right for you. If you’re interested in a discreet alignment method or want to get rid of the crooked or gapped teeth you’ve long been embarrassed by, schedule a consultation with Dr. Don Mungcal and the team at Manhattan Beach Dental Solutions in Manhattan Beach, California.